Charleston councilman considers running against Goodwin for mayor

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Another Democrat is interested in running for Mayor of the City of Charleston.

Former West Virginia Tourism Commissioner Amy Shuler Goodwin announced her campaign last week. Now, Charleston City Council Member At-Large Andy Richardson is considering entering the race.

Charleston City Councilman Andy Richardson

But Richardson said he’s not ready to make it official.

“I think it’s awfully early to be talking about running for an election that’s 15 months away,” he said.

The country, he said, needs to heal from the recent election first.

“That’s why I’m not ready to declare anything right now,” he said. “I think it’s time to sit back, reflect and listen to neighbors, friends and community and then make a decision.”

Richardson was elected to Charleston City Council in 2011. He said it would be the right time to run for mayor, if he chooses to make that announcement.

“I think there’s an opportunity to work with other communities in our region to strengthen the local economy,” he said. “I’m looking at it because I think we’ve had strong leadership and want to evaluate whether I fit the mold for continuing the kind of strong leadership that Charleston has had.”

Richardson said one of his top priorities would be to increase broadband access. He said a lot of great initiatives are already underway in the city.

“I’d like to see those through and build on that success to strengthen our economy, make the region more attractive for millennials and for jobs,” he said.